New statistics show that 76 percent of fatal Iowa car crashes in January involved motorists who failed to wear seat belts.

According to preliminary data from the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau, there is a significant increase in January over the five year average of 32 percent of deaths involving no seat belt use. “There’s no question, seat belts save lives” said Bureau member Larry Sauer. “The fatality total this month is so unfortunate. If these folks had taken a few moments to buckle up, they might be home with their families right now.”

Preliminary crash report data show that 21 lives were saved in January by seat belts. According to officials, the number of lives saved by safety belts in 2010 reached 184.

Close to 93 percent of Iowans use their seat belts when traveling interstates and highways, officials said.

“As snow continues to fall this winter, the importance of wearing your safety belt should be even clearer,” said Iowa State Patrol Colonel Patrick Hoye. “It would be tragic to continue this unbelted fatality trend into February.”

If you have been injured in an Iowa auto accident, you may be entitled to compensation. To discuss your case, please contact the Iowa Personal Injury Lawyers of Lamarca & Landry, P.C., by calling 877-327-2600.

A man and young boy on a motorcycle were injured after the man drove the motorcycle into a SUV that stopped abruptly.

The accident occurred Tuesday evening on Gordon Drive in Sioux City, Iowa when a dog ran out into the street in front of the SUV.  The driver of the SUV stopped to avoid the dog, but the motorcyclist could not stop in time and ran into the back of the SUV.

48-year old John Kentner and a 12-year old boy were taken to Mercy Medical Center listed in fair condition.  Kenter suffered from severe head trauma, broken ribs, a ruptured lung, and injuries to his right ear and left leg.  The boy also suffered serious injuries that were not released by police or hospital officials.  The boy was wearing a helmet, but the boy was not.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact the Iowa motorcycle accident lawyers of LaMarca & Landry, P.C. at 877-327-2600 to learn more about your rights.